By: Laura Soukkavong
Boston – Six individuals from Manchester, New Hampshire are facing charges following a violent robbery at the Downtown Crossing MBTA station earlier this month, according to Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden.
Authorities allege that on March 15 at approximately 3:25 p.m., officers responded to a reported robbery near Liberty Square and Water Street. The incident reportedly began onboard a Red Line train, where a 19-year-old victim was verbally confronted by a group.
Investigators say that after exiting the train at Downtown Crossing, the victim was chased onto an escalator where he was knocked to the ground and repeatedly kicked in the face and head. The group then allegedly stole his cellphone, identification, and debit cards before fleeing the station.
Those charged include Luiz Loaiza, 20; Jose Soto, 20; Cameron Castro, 21; Anthony Perry, 22; and Alexander Loaiza, 21. All five face charges of unarmed robbery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct. A sixth individual, Giavanna Williams, 20, is charged with receiving stolen property over $1,200 and disorderly conduct.
Police were able to locate the suspects approximately one hour later near Blackstone Street by tracking the victim’s cellphone. According to investigators, Williams allegedly produced the stolen phone and debit cards before being questioned. Officers also reported observing what appeared to be blood on one suspect’s clothing.
Surveillance footage from the MBTA station and a field identification by the victim further supported the arrests, according to authorities.
A judge in Boston Municipal Court Central set bail at $500 for each of the six individuals and ordered them to stay away from the victim and the Downtown Crossing area. All are scheduled to return to court on May 19 for a probable cause hearing.
District Attorney Hayden described the incident as a brazen daytime attack and emphasized that those responsible will be held accountable.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.